It's better to have a friend with a boat than to own one.

A FRIENDWITH A BOAT

Private cruises around St. Joseph Sound Honeymoon Island · Clearwater · Dunedin
⚓ Let's Go

Choose your cruise

Two ways to get on the water: a signature sunset cruise, or your own private trip on your schedule.

Signature experience

Private Sunset Cruise

Relaxed cruising through St. Joseph Sound before enjoying a Gulf Coast sunset from the water, then a short ride back in.

$250 total, not per person
  • Length~2 hours
  • GuestsUp to 4 (5 or 6 by request)
  • DepartureTimed to sunset, seasonal
Book Sunset Cruise
Your boat. Your time.

Private Cruise

A private daytime cruise for sightseeing, floating near a barrier island, or just being out on the water. Your call, captain's judgment on the route.

  • 2 hours$250
  • 3 hours$325
  • 4 hours$400

2-hour minimum. Up to 4 guests standard, 5 or 6 by special request.

Book Private Cruise
A Friend With A Boat captain at the helm during a sunset cruise

Meet your captain

I've been boating and sailing for more than 30 years, long before I ever got a license for it. My wife and I lived aboard a sailboat for about a year, cruising the Bahamas, and I've crossed the Gulf Stream a couple of times along the way. These days, most of that time is spent right here, running the waters around Clearwater and Dunedin that I already know well from years of doing this for fun.

I hold a U.S. Coast Guard OUPV ("six-pack") captain's license, but honestly, the license is the least interesting part. What matters more is that I've spent decades taking friends, family, and other people out on the water simply because I like sharing it. Bring your spouse, your kids, your parents, or your visiting friends. You're in experienced, relaxed hands.

30+ years on the water USCG OUPV licensed Bahamas liveaboard Local Clearwater/Dunedin waters

The boat

A Friend With A Boat runs a 19-foot Grady-White Tournament dual-console. It's a nice boat, well cared for, with real shade and sun protection built in.

This isn't a yacht, and it's not trying to be one. It's a small, comfortable boat built for exactly what this business is about: a private, personal experience on the water, not a big commercial tour. Small boat, private experience. That's the whole idea.

19-ft Grady-White Tournament Dual console Well maintained Good shade coverage
A Friend With A Boat - 19-foot Grady-White at sunset

What to expect

Simple, relaxed, and unhurried. Here's how a trip actually goes.

What to bring

Keep it simple. This is a casual afternoon or evening on the water, not a formal outing.

Good to bring

  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Sunscreen
  • A light jacket if it's cooler out
  • Your phone or camera
  • Your own drinks, snacks, or a small cooler
  • A properly fitted life jacket for young children

We provide

  • Bottled water and ice
  • A cooler on board
  • Bluetooth speaker for your music

Weather & cancellation policy

Florida weather changes fast. Nobody should feel pressured to go out in bad conditions to avoid losing money.

If we cancel for weather or safety

  • Your choice of a full refund or a free reschedule, no penalty, no hassle.
  • Safety and the captain's judgment always come first, over completing a trip.

If you need to cancel

  • 48+ hours out: full refund
  • 24 to 48 hours out: free reschedule, or refund minus a small processing fee
  • Under 24 hours / no-show: no refund, though the captain may use discretion for genuine emergencies

Frequently asked questions

Where do we meet?

At the public dock in downtown Clearwater, near The BayCare Sound at Coachman Park. Exact meeting instructions are sent after you book.

How many people can come?

Our standard cruises are set up for up to 4 guests for the most comfortable experience on a 19-foot boat. If your group is 5 or 6, reach out. We may be able to accommodate it.

How long is the cruise?

The Sunset Cruise runs about 2 hours. Private Cruises start at a 2-hour minimum, with 3- and 4-hour options available.

Is the boat private?

Yes, completely. It's just your group and your captain. No other passengers, ever.

Is the $250 price per person?

No, it's a flat price for the whole boat, whether it's 2 people or a full group.

Can children come?

Absolutely. Florida law requires any child under 6 to wear a USCG-approved life jacket any time the boat is underway. We carry standard adult life jackets on board, so please bring a properly fitted, child-sized life jacket for your child.

Can we bring drinks or alcohol?

Yes, responsible BYOB is welcome. Cans, plastic cups, and soft-sided coolers only, please, no glass bottles. This isn't a party cruise, and the captain has full authority to end a trip for unsafe behavior.

Can we bring food or a cooler?

Of course, bring snacks, drinks, or a small cooler. We'll have ice and a cooler on board too.

Will we see dolphins?

Often, but never guaranteed. Wildlife sightings depend on the day. We'll never promise something nature has to decide.

What happens if it rains or the weather turns?

Safety comes first. If the captain has to cancel for weather or unsafe conditions, you get your choice of a full refund or a free reschedule.

What should we wear?

Casual and comfortable. Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are the essentials. Bring a light jacket if it's cool.

Can we play music?

Yes, there's a Bluetooth speaker on board, or feel free to bring your own.

Can we smoke or vape?

No, smoking and vaping aren't permitted on board.

Are pets allowed?

Not currently, given the boat's size and passenger capacity.

Where do we park?

Parking details near the downtown Clearwater dock are sent with your booking confirmation.

How early should we arrive?

Please plan to arrive about 10 to 15 minutes before departure so we can load up and get underway on time.

Is this a fishing charter?

No, this is a sightseeing and sunset cruise business, not a fishing charter. No fishing gear or bait aboard.

Book your cruise

Online booking is being set up now. For the moment, send a request below or reach out directly and we'll confirm your date.

Prefer to reach out directly? Call/text (732) 779-8735 or email AFWABoat@gmail.com